Common Problems with Solar Panels

While solar panels are often touted as a one-and-done solution to energy problems, they are much more than that. They are simple to operate because the sun does most of the work, but like everything else, they do require maintenance and occasionally, repairs.

These are some of the most common problems that can affect solar panels, and how they can be taken care of by the average homeowner.

The Weather

Since the solar panels are going to go on the roof, one of the biggest concerns is the weather. Rain, hail, thunder, and winds are some of the most likely suspects for damage to solar panels. However, the weather actually doesn’t do as much damage as people think. The panels are designed to be durable and are specifically tested in extreme weather conditions.

Even heavy hail storms don’t cause too much damage to solar panels, as there have been incidents where hail has dented roofs and broken windows but hasn’t even scratched the paint on solar panels. So, with the main culprit out, what else could cause damage to your solar panels and necessitate solar panel repairs on the Mornington Peninsula?

Keeping Them Clean

Neglect can also cause problems for your solar panels. They work by having solar cells soak in as much solar energy as they can, and if the panels are covered in dirt, grime, bird poop, or other pieces of debris, then they won’t be as effective. If the solar panels for your home are neglected and not cleaned off, then after a while the sun’s energy won’t be absorbed as well.

So simply washing the panels with a water hose and a washcloth can be enough to keep them clean, and you’ll only have to wash them every few months or so.

Doing Repairs

Since solar panels are built to be tough and resistant to the elements, chances are you might never need to do more than just a quick cleaning. However, on the off chance one of them breaks, you’ll need to speak to a professional to make sure they are repaired and back to working order quickly. Most problems often happen inside the panel. Problems with the electrical components are best fixed by a professional solar panel repairs service in Mornington Peninsula, and of course, micro-cracks can develop.

The Smallest Cracks, the Biggest Problems

Micro-cracks are small cracks in the panel that the naked eye can’t see, at first, but if the cracks are aggravated, they can make the panels ineffective. These cracks can either be caused by mishandling during the installation or simply by the weather and changing temperature.

Those should be fixed by a professional, hopefully before they become a major problem.

Don’t become complacent and trust in the durability of the solar panels for homes, because while it is impressive, it doesn’t mean that the solar panels are completely invulnerable to damage. So taking the time to inspect them and keep them clean will pay off and keep them working for many years after you get them installed.